Azden SMX-30 Review
Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
- Stereo and Mono Recording Modes
- 120 Hz Low-Cut Filter
- -10, 0, and +20 dB Level Adjustment
- 3.5mm TRS Output
- Includes Foam Windscreen & Carry Pouch
- Integrated Shockmount
- Operates on Two AA Batteries
- 40 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Response
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 1,530 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Azden SMX-30. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Azden SMX-30. For example, 90% of 46 users who have commented on the Sound quality of the Azden SMX-30 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 49 Reviews
AZDEN SMX-30 is a good match for my SONY FDR-AX700
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Lee on B&H Photo Video
I bought the AZDEN SMX-30 stereo-mono microphone to enhance the audio on my SONY FDR-AX700 camcorder. I typically record band, choral and orchestral concerts from the elementary level through the college level as well as outside venues like musical performances at the Disney parks. I am an avid amateur videographer. Not a professional. My evaluation of the AZDEN SMX-30 is more subjective than objective. I started shooting videos on my new SONY FDR-AX700 using the internal stereo mics. The sound was decent but not as clear as I hoped. I contacted SONY directly to obtain the audio specs (frequency range, s/n ratio, etc) for my camcorder but SONY would not release this information to me saying it was proprietary information. Accordingly, I searched through a number of external microphones that were compatible with my camcorder and, based on various selection criteria, whittled them down to the AZDEN SMX-30 (which is powered by two AA batteries). Besides having 120 degree cardiod stereo mics, the SMX-30 also has a supercardiod shotgun mic for interviews/utube. Both sets of mics sit on top of an integrated shock mount. The mic has a frequency response range of 40hz-20khz which surpasses many of it's competitors for my price point. (20hz-20khz mics were much more expensive). The mic has three gain control settings of -10dB, 0dB and +20dB plus a low cut filter switch at 120hz. This mic slides nicely into the slot on my multi interface shoe and has a dedicated cord which plugs into my 3.5mm camcorder mic jack. (On my camcorder, I select Stereo Mini Mic for the Mic Select option and Manual for the Audio Rec Level option with a Manual Rec Level setting of ~3 for +20dB). In addition, this mic is compact and extends 4.25 inches up above the camcorder and does not interfere with the camcorder operations of the right hand. I like the SMX-30's auto power on/off feature that turns the mic on and off as I turn the AX700 on or off. It works great on my camcorder. I also like AZDEN's 10 year limited warranty on this mic but you need to register for this warranty on their website. Besides listening to AX700 and SMX-30 audio tests on the Internet, I ran some tests at home comparing the AX700 internal stereo mics with the AZDEN SMX-30 stereo mics at 0dB and +20dB. I played classical music selections on various speakers throughout my house and recorded them from different points/angles/rooms in my house. I also separately played/recorded all 88 keys on my piano followed by playing chord progressions in various octaves. I found that using Auto as the Audio Rec Level on the AX700 for the internal and AZDEN mics resulted in a background hissing sound in many cases. If you have post-production software to clean up the audio, then Auto may be fine for you. If you don't, then I would use the Auto setting where sound quality is not important for your video. I should note that the AX700 has an audio limiter, that is always active, which caps the maximum volume input allowed from the internal mics or the AZDEN. I'd recommend that you plug a good stereo headset into the AX700 and monitor the audio feeds from your internal mics or the AZDEN (and then tune accordingly). I also found that my best audio quality for both mics was specifying Manual for the Audio Rec Level. For the internal mics and AZDEN 0dB, setting the AX700 Manual Rec Level to a value between 5-10 seemed to work best for music and mitigated the hiss. For the AZDEN +20dB, a Manual Rec Level around 3 seemed to work the best for music. As for recording music, I found the stereo effect to be significantly better with the AZDEN than with the internal mics. The AZDEN matched the sound quality/timbre of the music from a string bass up to a piccolo. The recordings from the internal mics sounded fuzzier, omnidirectional and had a different timbre from the original. In the 88 key piano test, the AZDEN recording actually sounded like the physical piano that I played (@+20dB) while the internal mics had muddiness in the extreme bass registers, a slight tinny sound in the higher registers and the timbre of each key seemed off (i.e. perhaps not enough overtones being captured?). That said, the sound from the internal mics was still decent. Both sets of mics successfully recorded the pitch for each piano key from the highest to the lowest note as well as any dynamic changes. One item of note. I recently recorded an elementary choral concert (using the AZDEN) where a father and daughter, sitting behind me, were talking during the performance. I thought for sure that the AZDEN would pick their voices up, but was pleasantly surprised that the AZDEN cardiod pattern eliminated their chatter. Suffice it to say that I now use my AZDEN mic to record my concerts. I mostly use the AZDEN stereo +20dB setting but do use the 0dB setting on other occasions depending on my seating location, the venue, the source music, the source volume and recording quality. My next step is to explore the use of the monaural shotgun mic to record groups that are far from my location. In short, I'm very happy with my purchase of the AZDEN SMX-30 from B&H based on my call to their expert's. The SMX-30 gives me the ability to integrate great sound quality with the prosumer (4k) video from my AX700. ... More
Best sounding, most versatile DSLR mic out there!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Owen R on B&H Photo Video
I've used quite a few different DSLR mics for my aging Canon EOS Rebel t3i and I have to say, this is by far the best one! I do quite a bit of video between live music settings and interviews with musicians in conjunction with a podcast I run. This mic has truly streamlined the process for me, giving me the best possible audio for both situations. Having the flexibility to switch between mono or stereo mode has proven itself time and time again for me already. The stereo mode using the -10dB pad is perfect for my live music recording and the +20dB boost setting is perfect for my on-camera interview setups. With the +20dB boost, you need to turn down the Canon's volume, which gives me super solid and clean audio direct into the camera. Also, the AUTO feature Azden put onto this mic is so cool! I'm guilty of draining my batteries numerous times on older mics, so I tried switching to a mic that ran off plug-in power only. That proved to be a mistake, as I lost audio quality. With the SMX-30 in AUTO mode, it turns on and off with my camera when plugged in. The build quality is awesome, seems really sturdy (even thought it's only plastic) and I love the integrated shock mount. Seems to do the job very well, especially with the moving around I do at live concerts and performances. Also, when I eventually upgrade my rig, I'll have the option to mount this on a cage with the 1/4 20 thread on the bottom of the shoe mount. I would recommend this mic to any video hobbyist, DIY or indie filmmaker or even someone just taking video for fun with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Nice job Azden! I'm super impressed. Oh, and register the mic online, they ahve a 10 year warranty with this one! ... More
Excellent mic for DSLR style cameras like my GH4
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Dennis on B&H Photo Video
I bought this mic for my recent trip to the Galapagos Islands and I am glad to have done so. Originally I was considering buying a new additional stereo mic to compliment my Rode NTG3 for the expansive sounds of surf, birds and who knows what else the Galapagos offers. Upon further research I determined that this approach would involve way too much equipment and hassle. The SMX-30 had just been introduced and it looked like a good product so I bought it with the furry windscreen. This is a very good microphone. The shotgun capsule compares very favorable to my Rode Video Mic Pro with a little different sound in the treble, where the Rode seems to have a more pronounced bass. They are both good, just different. The SMX-30 also has a very nice X Y stereo capsule that creates a wonderful expansive ambience that was exactly what I was looking for and all in one small package. The suspension system works well and the furry cover is effective up until about 25 mph winds. There is a very neat feature that lets the mic power on and off as the camera is powered on and off. This means watching the mic batteries is not necessary, one less thing to worry about.The only possible problem that might arise is when pressing your face against the back of a DSLR style camera, the back of the mic suspension system may come in contact with your forehead. This happened to me once and it is not a big issue, just something to be aware of. I am very happy with this purchase and it is now my go to mic for my GH4. ... More
Exactly the Microphone is was looking for, EXCELLENT!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by BlueDrumStudio on B&H Photo Video
Needed to start filming events we host at the local American Legion in Newhall California. Called in to order an Audio Technica AT8024 but it was on back order. The B&H Tech suggested the Azden SMX-30; after only 1 event I really love it. Just got a Canon D7 MKii and the next day I shot an event. Check out my YouTude channel under BlueDrumStudio, and please forgive the focus issues as this was the very first time I used a DSLR. I didn't even change the camera preamp from AUTO, so what you are hearing is the Azden with the -10dDB setting while I walked in from of the live band. ... More
THE Ultimate Video Microphone!!!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
I had known Azden as a manufacturer of microphones great in build quality but mediocre in performance. But their SMX-30 just blew me away. Its stereo/mono switchable feature is not a gimmick, it actually works very well. It's like carrying 2 really good mics in 1 and each mode sounds as good as, if not better than mics from other top brands. I think Azden did a great job by designing the stereo unit on top of the shotgun unit. This way, the stereo mic will not pick up the motor noise from the camera which can be a serious problem with some stereo video mics. I also like the SMX-30's aggressive low-cut filter. Many mics feature a low-cut filter but it is rare that the cut is aggressive enough that it actually works. This is not as important as its high performance level and rich feature set, but I personally think this mic looks really great on my camera. ... More
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Best DSLR Mic In The $400 Range
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Graham on B&H Photo Video
This is a new on camera mic I just got yesterday, the Azden SMX30 ($250). It's actually two mics in one, one stereo that captures a wide field of sound and a mono shotgun mic that captures a very narrow field of sound up to 8 feet away and does a great job of canceling out surrounding sound making it perfect for dialogue almost anywhere in any condition. I vigorously compared it to a top contender the Rode Videomic Pro+ ($300), plus the new highly acclaimed Deity D3 Pro ($200), and other top brand mics from Sennheiser, Audio Technica and more under $400. While the Pro+ has a nice warm low end which can give you a cinematic edge / fat punchy dialogue, that low end unless you engage the high pass filter can also be a great hindrance leading to a muffled and boxy sound. Where on the other hand with no HPF engaged the SMX30 sounds flat and crispy, ultimately true to life and while the end result sound's great it also leaves you with a lot more to work with in post. We also have the new D3 Pro from Deity which has a beautiful metal housing with a stepless gain knob, however the sound quality is highly comparable to the SMX30, both are fantastic mics, but for $50 more the SMX30 comes with a bonus stereo mic, making it the logical choice for getting the most bang for your buck. One thing I don't like about the SMX30 is the cord, while it's manageable it falls right down infront of the viewfinder, and it would also be nice if the cord was detachable like the D3 Pro or Pro+, just in case it gets damaged on the job, but hey the SMX30 comes with a 10 year warranty! Anyways, I really can't find a mic that you can directly plug into any video / audio device without PreAmp, Mixer, or Phantom Power better than the Azden SMX30 for under $400. If your not looking to spend around $250 for the SMX30 I'd highly recommend the Deity D3, a step down from the D3 Pro for only $100, another great option is the VideoMicro from Rode which goes for only $60 which is decent step up from most built in camera mics. ... More
Azden knocks it out of the park with this mic. Awesome!!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by William Davis on B&H Photo Video
I needed a mic for my Nikon D750 and I was considering the well known Rode VMP and then came across this, the Azden SMX-30. I didn't know Azden all that well but took a chance on the mic because it had such a cool look and has the versatility of stereo or mono. I do not regret this decision one bit!! This mic has fantastic sound. Having two mics in one is such a great feature. The build quality is excellent too. It has the 10 year warranty in case anything ever goes wrong - I feel confident this mic will last a me a long time. I am very happy with his purchase. ... More
Azden SMX-30 mic
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Alan on B&H Photo Video
The unit is pleasantly compact and light-weight.The suspension is effective (compliant) & sturdy yet compact. Uses two, AA batteries that last about 24 hrs. Though this is significantly less run-time than most otherDSLR video mics on the market, the increased current draw is a direct consequence of the built-inlow-impedance pre-amplifier design. Lower impedance should yield a better signal-to-noise ratio.The easy to access battery door has a nice, sturdy (thick) design.The cord with a 3.5mm mini-jack is not too long (like many) nor too bulky (like one that is coiled).It is permanently mounted with good strain relief. Plug-in connections can be problematic. My audio is much improved and I really like being able to quickly & easily switch between shotgun & stereo with a minimum of equipment. ... More
Super low-noise microphone!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
I have been using the SMX-30 for months and have not experienced the background noise issue that Alex described. As a matter of fact, the SMX-30 is a very quiet mic that I have never noticed any noise. Probably Alex's experience has something to do with the fact that Panasonic HMC150 is not equipped with a 3.5mm mic input jack. When you have to use a 3.5mm-to-XLR adapter cable, especially involving a stereo to mono conversion, many things can happen. I think what Alex is experiencing is more of an adapter cable issue than a mic issue.
Would I buy this product again? Absolutly!
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Leon on B&H Photo Video
I liked the reviews, and the features of this Mic, so I thought I would try it, If not. then B&H has great customer return service, Well I used it on my Sony RX-10 MII, of which is a great camera, but weak on audio, especially on board Mic's. So, I did a simple 4-part test, I shot some video, Inside, & Outside with the RX-10's on board mic, and then with the Azden SMX-30. Like night & day! Better signal strength, richer sound, pretty well balanced, and when set to mono, it works just like a smaller shotgun mic, and the foam wind cheater was sufficient, but not perfect. I'm very happy with this purchase. Highly recommend it! ... More
Innovative Microphone Design
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Trevor on B&H Photo Video
I purchased this microphone because of its uniqueness of having both stereo and mono elements and that it seems to have very good user reviews on YouTube. I like the best of both worlds as I take a lot of travel videos and I always prefer the sound from a stereo microphone over a mono boom mic on my outdoor shots. Unfortunately, when I received my microphone, I immediately noticed a pinging noise through my headphones and recordings whenever the microphone was moved slightly. B&H was able to assist me promptly with a replacement and the new one seems to work perfectly. I noticed when you activate the low pass switch, the sound can seem a little tinny as it seems to roll off a little too much bass compared to my Rode microphone but overall it sounds really good. One great feature is the Auto On mode which only turns the camera on when the camera is turned on. The microphone still seems to pick up slight camera noises from my RX10M3 but not nearly as bad as my Sony stereo microphone. When I purchased this microphone, Azden had a rebate at the time for a free dead cat but as usual, these offers aren't available outside the US. I only gave it four stars because of my DOA issue. Overall, the microphone is a bargain for the price and Azden support is great as well. ... More
The audio is wonderful--and a note on background noise
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Akeylah on B&H Photo Video
This mic captures sound really well and is useful as both a stereo and directional shotgun mic. The ability to bump up decibels is valuable at this price point. For context, I'm an undergrad who makes videos and has a specific attention to capturing ambient noise, quiet sounds, and dialogue. I currently shoot on M43, and the Azden balances on the cold-shoe mount wonderfully, which is something I was concerned about. I appreciate the combination of both a stereo mic and a shotgun for a reasonable price. The sound it captures sounds true to life as well. In this way, I believe this mic is good for people looking for a good deal and the ease that comes with wired, on-camera mics. On electronic hiss: This mic is no different than other on-camera, 3.5mm stereo plugs. By nature of the way the mic connects to the camera, it will produce a certain amount of high frequency hiss. It's just the name of the game with these sorts of mics. Just fix the audio in post. I use Audition and Premiere to edit videos, so I just use the DeNoiser effect and customize it to focus on high-frequency sounds. If you're not into dealing with that sort of noise, no worries! But you may want to look at mics which have an XLR connection. ... More
Nice mic for DSLR
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Mic & Furry Windshield Cover Kit
Reviewed by Trying to survive with modern hardware on B&H Photo Video
I purchased this for use on a new Pentax K3. I did some field testing with 2 sopranos, at about 15 foot distance, using the stereo xy mics vs the mono shotgun mic, and even with two singers closely positioned, the greater ambience of the xy mic is apparent. The mono mic had the same quality of sound, just located in the center of the sound field and without depth. The +20db boost feature at that distance with 2 voices was almost too much for the camera input, setting the camera record level at 3 to prevent saturation (the upper range is 20), and setting the mic to +0db allowed me to raise the camera input to 8 and the sound quality was indistinguishable. For other settings, the +20db output of the mic will be an excellent feature. ... More
Excellent quality and feature set
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Ricky on B&H Photo Video
Picked this up to serve primarily as an external mic for my camcorder. Thankfully, the camcorder allows for the auto-power-on feature of this mic to work seamlessly. So that's a huge win for usability. In the future, I also plan to use with my DSLR. The unit is very light, even with batteries installed. It mounts very well to standard-sized shoes. I have not fully analyzed the sound quality over the built-in mics, but am already enjoying lower noise. The +20, 0 and -10dB settings give you enough play for various situations. Mono vs. stereo modes work as expected and was perhaps the most important aspect of me picking up this unit. I haven't yet tested the furry windscreen as that part is arriving later as part of an earlier rebate program. But the built-in foam screen is very nice and fits nice and snug; no risk of falling out. Finally, because ratings must only be in whole numbers, I'm going to remove half a star for the following: Both the serial number and battery orientation diagram are within the battery slot and very difficult to see. I managed to capture a picture of it with my smart phone since focusing distance could be very close (about an inch or so). It would have been much better to have the serial say under the unit and the battery orientation on the inside of the battery cover itself. I may end up making my own indicator sticker later. ... More
Solid Mic
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Drew on B&H Photo Video
I did a few quick audio tests with this mic. I had someone run dialogue while the mic was sitting in the hot shoe, on top of the camera. This mic is leaps and bounds better then the Rhode mic we were using before. When this mic is in stereo mode it picks up everything!! That will be great for some situations, for dialogue that we were running that day, mono was the way to go. I will say that the mic did and will pick up the sound of me racking focus. That is when it is sitting on the hot shoe. Rarely would I try and run audio this way though. The only other thing about this mic is that it's a bit tinny when you first hear the audio and not always super warm. But I increased the bass boost in post and messed with the pan a little bit and was very happy with the results. In the end, you want a pretty solid run and gun mic, this is a good choice. But don't expect pro level results from it. Also the cord from the mic to the camera is a bit on the short side, get something to extend that! ... More
10/10 Would buy again.
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Stuart on B&H Photo Video
We do a lot of run and gun exercise videos and were using the Rode Pro R mics and they jus weren't cutting it. The SMX-30 gives a way cleaner signal and is an all around more versatile mic. It blew our minds when compared to our old gear.
Great Mic
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Ben on B&H Photo Video
I have used the stereo and mono features in the field and i have to say i am very impressed. I took an hour to adjust my camera input and the mics gain but after that it is perfect.
B&H to the rescue with the Azden smx-30
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Ron on B&H Photo Video
I really like it a lot. I was thinking about the rode mic but the audio guy asked if I had researched the smx-30 . I did and called back and bought it. Great sound and I like the stereo for ambient sound and live music.If my son keeps making films we might get a second one. Also I needed help getting the 10 year warranty and the Azden folks were very nice and patient.I know B&H is a big, big business but when I call with questions I feel like I'm talking to a tech buddy. Thanks for that.
Great idea for a mic.
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by ENRIQUE on B&H Photo Video
I have used this product and am completely satisfied with it's performance. I turned the camera mic down to -12, turn off Mic limiter and the gain and quality of sound on the mic is especially full all around natural sound. I particularly enjoyed the Stereo feature, also if you put the mic in Auto mode, it will turn off and on with the cam. you would not forget to turn it on when you are recording as I have been known to do.
all-in-one answer for run-n-gun video recording.
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Reviewed by Pete RD on B&H Photo Video
The Nikon D500 can shoot 4K video and record audio in stereo, but that sound is nowhere near the video quality. Azden SMX-30 does a very good job recording mono and stereo from a point source or surround from roaring waterfall to a gentle rain in the forest. Super easy to switch between mono and stereo as you need and having the mike(s) turn on or off with the camera is very convenient and worry-free. The mike cover and optional dead cat help control wind/ambient noise conditions.
